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Pilot and Passenger Rescued After Tree Strike During ILS Approach (N105A)

Elkhart, IN, US

On March 8, 1992, a Socata TB-10 (registration N105A) operated by Central Skyport Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Elkhart, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PROPER GLIDEPATH WAS NOT MAINTAINED AND MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE WAS NOT MAINTAINED BY THE PILOT RESULTING IN COLLISION WITH TREES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During an ILS approach, the pilot momentarily lost sight of the runway due to fog and external lighting. The airplane struck trees about half a mile from the runway and came to rest in treetops. Both occupants were rescued by fire department personnel.

Flight Background

The pilot was conducting an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 27. This flight was the pilot's first actual instrument flight rules (IFR) operation since receiving an IFR certificate one month prior to the incident.

Approach and Accident

After intercepting the outer marker, the pilot initiated the descent for the ILS approach. According to the pilot, he broke out of cloud cover and established visual contact with the runway. However, due to fog and external lighting conditions, he stated that he momentarily lost sight of the runway. When he redirected his attention to the instrument panel, he realized his altitude was too low. The airplane subsequently collided with trees approximately half a mile from the runway threshold.

Rescue

The airplane became stuck in the treetops. The pilot and passenger were rescued by the fire department. No information was provided regarding injuries or aircraft damage.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Mar 1992 Socata TB-10 accident near Elkhart, IN?

During an ILS approach, the pilot momentarily lost sight of the runway due to fog and external lighting. The airplane struck trees about half a mile from the runway and came to rest in treetops. Both occupants were rescued by fire department personnel.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Mar 1992 Socata TB-10 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Mar 1992 involved a Socata TB-10, registration N105A, operated by Central Skyport Aviation, at Elkhart, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

PROPER GLIDEPATH WAS NOT MAINTAINED AND MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE WAS NOT MAINTAINED BY THE PILOT RESULTING IN COLLISION WITH TREES. FACTORS RELATE TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE PILOT'S LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE IN TYPE OF OPERATION AND OVER CONFIDENCE IN PERSONAL ABILITY.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14259. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.